Stefan Posch’s Potential Return to Bundesliga: Mainz 05 and 1. FC Köln Express Interest

The Mainzer Allgemeine Zeitung reports that Mainz 05 is one of two German clubs interested in re-signing Austrian defender Stefan Posch, who has 49 caps for the Austrian national team. Posch came close to joining newly promoted Bundesliga team Hamburger SV this summer, but the management was unable to finalize the deal.

Fabrizio Romano has also linked Posch with a transfer to 1. FC Köln, suggesting that initial discussions have taken place between the 28-year-old and his Serie A parent club, FC Bologna. Köln is currently seeking solutions for their central defense due to a spate of injuries, prompting head coach Lukas Kwasniok to rely on players he had previously considered offloading.

Although a transfer would seem logical, it is widely known that Posch’s salary and Bologna’s transfer fee demands thwarted Hamburg’s attempts to secure him earlier this summer. Financial limitations mean Mainz is more likely to pursue a lower-cost alternative, such as Marvin Friedrich from Borussia Mönchengladbach.

In contrast, Köln has greater financial flexibility due to savings accrued from a two-year transfer ban. However, this does not guarantee that they can afford to make a significant investment for the €5.5 million-valued defender. Additionally, Bologna would need to terminate Posch’s current loan to Como 1907 first to facilitate any sale.

Bundesliga reporters have become accustomed to transfer rumors surrounding Posch since his permanent departure from Hoffenheim in January 2023. His inconsistent performance levels pose a risk, leading to speculation that, after much discussion, Posch may remain in Italy.